Wednesday, April 2, 2014

March on the Poudre River...2014

The weather forecasters were calling for temperatures in the 60's
with the typical gusty spring wind found in Northern Colorado. I had the
opportunity to hit the water for a couple of hours and wind or not, I planned
on taking my chances with the wind, cold and what ever else springtime in the
rockies was going to bring.

Sun and clear skies accompanied me to the Poudre Canyon. The wind
was a constant during my trip and didn't show any signs of letting up in the
canyon. Undeterred, I grabbed the Tenkara, rigged up with a size 16 black zebra
midge with a size 16 ABU as a dropper on a 13 foot leader and tippet combination. I stood on the banks of the river
admiring the gin clear water and and the changes to the landscape from last years flood. Natures resiliency was very comforting.I forgot about the wind...

The river was moving at about 160cfs and my thermometer was showing 38
degrees on the tongue of my wading boot.

Given the temperatures, any depth that would afford some
temperature control for the fish were areas I slowly drifted the nymphs through
with a slight upward lift or twitch. The strikes were subtle and only occurred
if I found the depth and made sure the nymphs stayed there. I remembered the
wind.

I was fortunate to share the couple of hours I had on the water
with some of the canyon's residents. Although the wind was more resilient than
I was and I was glad I had other commitments, my spirit was lifted to be on the
water and be a part of the river's spirit.

Tips of the Trip:

Wind suxCheck water temperature during your time on the water

Cold water temperatures... slow down and expect sluggish fish

Cold water temperatures... look for depth relative to the area you are
fishing

Kudo's too you, Al, for getting out and braving the Winter/Spring weather. I must say that is a beautifully spotted Brown that you are holding there. If I could catch them that pretty I would give nymphing a shot, too.

Gotta love springtime in the Rockies Mel! The brown's were amazing. The water was amazing pre-run off and gin clear. Think its gonna be a great year. We can help ya catch the nymphing bug without a doubt!!!!!

Bill, Thanks for stopping by and I am still waiting for you to give a Tenkara a try. I have minimal leader on the water only the amount needed for the depth of the water. Always a pleasure! Will be chasin bass soon my friend.